DepressionSelf-Help Books

Depression may be characterized as moderate or severe, depending upon the symptoms. Moderate depression (dysthymia) may be difficult for the sufferer to self-diagnose. The best clues come via inferences based on observations: people are more difficult to deal with; the drivers on the roads are worse than ever; my boss is more unreasonable; there are more weeds than flowers in the garden. Read more »

RecommendedSelf-Help Books on Depression

"What if van Gogh had been on anti-depressants?" Author Peter Kramer (Listening to Prozac) makes the compelling case that depression is a physical disease and should be treated as such. The van Gogh question expresses a cultural myth: that creative genius necessarily requires severe emotional strain. This self-help book offers excellent support for anyone struggling to define their talents as existing separately from their illness. 2006, Penguin

This slender, powerful self-help book offers a sure-to-be controversial alternative to the recent cottage industry of high-brow happiness books. Prof. Wilson claims that Americans today are too interested in being happy. (He points to the widespread use of antidepressants as exhibit A.) It is inauthentic and shallow, charges Wilson, to relentlessly seek happiness in a world full of tragedy. While he does not want to romanticize clinical depression, Wilson argues forcefully that melancholia is a necessary ingredient of any culture that wishes to be innovative or inventive. 2008, Farrar, Straus and Giroux

This autobiographical novel was published by the prize-winning poet a month before her suicide. It describes her hospitalization for severe depression, including shock treatments. A literary classic that is painful to read, but an important book. 2005, Harper Perennial Modern Classics

The author, a New York psychiatrist, suggests that the stresses of modern day life tend to deplete our natural supplies of serotonin, a brain hormone. He suggests a series of lifestyle approaches to buttress our serotonin system. Chapters discuss light therapy, melatonin, sleep patterns, exercise, diet and vitamin supplementation, as well as previewing the next generation of antidepressants. 1996, Regan Books

Depression is the most common psychological problem in America. The first part of this self-help book explains the causes of depression, its diagnosis, and its treatment with psychotherapy as well as antidepressant medications. The second part explains the patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that signal depression. Yapko uses case histories as well as more than 100 exercises to assist the reader in building the skills needed to manage depression. While there are many other titles on depression management, this book departs from the widely-held view that depression is mainly a biochemically-based disease treatable with medication. 1998, Main Street Books

Rational emotive behavioral therapy changes irrational thoughts using techniques for replacing negative behaviors with positive ones. This REBT workbook is written in an easy-to-use, step-by-step format. It offers you powerful strategies for overcoming depression and simple, direct language, amply illustrated with stories and reinforced by techniques you can practice right away. 2021, New Harbinger, 2nd Edition

This self-help volume summarizes the data that exercise can be an antidote to depression, as well as advantageous to one?s general wellness. It presents experimental studies and case studies that track the role of exercise in raising mood, as well as studies comparing the effect of exercise along with other treatment options, such as talk therapy and medication. Johnsgard acknowledges that exercise alone is not always enough to cope with depression or anxiety and examines ways to motivate oneself to exercise, how to exercise well, and how to manage the possible risks of exercise.2004, Prometheus Books

One of the founders of cognitive therapy, Beck writes a clear and comprehensive guide to the basis of emotional disturbance and highlights such important concepts as learning the meaning of hidden messages; listening to automatic thoughts; the role of sadness, anger and anxiety; understanding and overcoming depression; and applying the cognitive system of therapy to other specific problems. Dr. Beck explains clearly and persuasively how and why cognitive therapy works. 1979, Plume Books

This best-seller has helped thousands regain their zest for life. It gives the reader a clear understanding of the nature of depression and helps you pinpoint specific areas related to your own depression. Because not everybody experiences depression in the same way, the reader is guided to develop a personalized therapeutic program. Proven techniques including relaxation, social skill enhancement, and modification of self-defeating thinking patterns help the reader conquer his feelings of helplessness and alleviate the causes of his distress. 1992, Fireside

Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Styron describes his battles with suicidal depression. A fascinating portrayal of the loneliness and despair of major depression, this book may be particularly useful for family members struggling to understand the patient?s experience. This meditation on Styron?s serious depression at the age of sixty evokes with detachment and dignity the months-long turmoil whose symptoms included the novelist?s ?dank joylessness,? insomnia, physical aversion to alcohol, (previously ?an invaluable senior partner of my intellect?), and his persistent fantasies of self-destruction which led to psychiatric treatment and hospitalization. 1992, Vintage

DBT begins with the assumption that psychological problems are the result of emotional responses that are in conflict. It integrates a range of therapeutic techniques to tease apart and resolve the competing internal needs and urges that generate anger, depression, and anxiety. Exercises focus on assisting readers to become more responsive to uplifting aspects of their environment and tolerant of unavoidable emotions. 2004, New Harbinger

This best-selling self-help workbook provides interactive exercises that help readers take responsibility for their own wellness and teach essential coping skills, such as tracking and controlling moods, building a support system, increasing self-confidence and self-esteem, avoiding conditions that can exacerbate mood swings, and using relaxation, diet and exercise to stabilize moods. Included is a step-by-step process to help readers develop their own plan for managing symptoms and staying well. 2002, New Harbinger

Research shows that DBT can improve your ability to handle distress without losing control and acting destructively. In order to make use of these techniques, you need to build skills in four key areas--distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. This self-help book, a collaborative effort from three esteemed authors, offers straightforward, step-by-step exercises for learning these concepts and putting them to work for real and lasting change. The individual struggling with overwhelming emotions and DBT therapists will benefit significantly from this self-help workbook. 2007, New Harbinger

Most books on depression focus on crisis control during the acute phase of mild or severe depression. This self-help book deals instead with the period after recovery when as many as half of those who have defeated depression will suffer relapse. The book includes self-assessment tools and engaging exercises; practical advice about clinical options including antidepressant medication and continuing psychotherapy. The book encourages the reader to think realistically, have fun, be physically well, and to develop a new set of values that allows imperfection in your life, but at the same time protects you from vulnerability. 2003, New Harbinger

Revealing the link between physical fitness and psychological well-being, this self-help book includes many practical strategies designed to improve the reader?s enjoyment of and adherence to an exercise program. Useful self-monitoring forms are included in the book. 1998, Fitness Information Technology

Sequel to Feeling Good. Burns applies cognitive therapy approaches to the entire range of mood problems including feelings of insecurity, procrastination, guilt, frustration, etc. with application to marital and couple relationships. This self-help book covers a wider range of problems than the original book. 1999, Plume, revised ed.

This self-help book offers a five-step plan for coping with painful emotions such as anxiety and depression. You can learn to engage with painful thoughts and feelings through step-by-step acceptance and mindfulness-based techniques, discovering how to let go of control, and develop compassion and flexibility. 2005, New Harbinger

Goldberg and Elliott describe how using a combination of aerobic activities and strength training can reduce your risk of certain diseases as well as alleviate symptoms. This self-help book is filled with examples and stories from their sports medicine practices. 2000, Wiley

Many men may hide the reality of their depression from themselves as well as from family and friends. This unacknowledged depression may lead men to hurt the people they love most. Real tells his own story of depression as the son of a depressed father and as a father of young sons. This self-help book teaches men how to acknowledge their pain and restore healthy relationships. 1997, Scribner

People suffering from depression often exhibit three social characteristics that can make them more prone to the disorder: impaired social skills, excessive interpersonal dependency, and excessive interpersonal inhibition. This self-help book offers a step-by-step program to help you develop more acurate self perception and healthier social skills reducing your susceptibility to depression. 2005, New Harbinger

Author Shenk believes Lincoln struggled with persistent clinical depression. The unique contribution of this book to our understanding of depression is Shenk's assertion that depression was actually a source of Lincoln's greatness. His famed sense of humor was compensatory, and he also took refuge in poetry. His prophetic pessimism prepared a nation for the rigors of Civil War. 2006, Mariner Books

Dr. Honos-Webb helps you see periods of depression as opportunities for growth and introspection. Depression can be the start of a reorientation in life, a step in the search for meaning, or a chance for letting go of hurtful aspects of the self. This self-help book shows you how to understand what your pain may be communicating. 2006, New Harbinger

In this fascinating look at the new generation of SSRI antidepressants, Dr. Kramer reports that the changes in brain chemistry brought about by Prozac had a wide variety of effects, often giving users greater feelings of self-worth and confidence, less sensitivity to social rejection, and even a greater willingness to take risks. He addresses ethical and value-laden questions regarding the use of these powerful drugs which also may have some (positive) effects on the user?s personality. For anyone considering taking antidepressants or wanting a better understanding of the effects these drugs are having on our society, this is a very important self-help book. 1997, Penguin Books

Major depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. Dr. Serani, a practicing psychologist specializing in treating trauma and depression, surveys the various forms of depression, describes their diagnosis and treatment, and outlines methods for living with depression and getting the help you or a loved one needs. The book includes tips on how to choose the best therapist, navigate the healthcare maze, and minimize stigma. Dr. Serani views biology and biography as tools of empowerment, and explains how you can utilize these resources. Living With Depression is an excellent self-help guide for those affected by major depressive disorder. Rowman and Littlefield, 2011

This self-help book by economist Lane draws on extensive research in many fields to show that the main sources of well-being in advanced economies are friendships and a good family life. Income has little to do with happiness once a person rises above the poverty level. He calls attention to the surprising finding that in prosperous market democracies today large numbers of people regard themselves as unhappy. This book provides a useful backdrop to understanding some of the cultural values which may contribute to depression. 2001, Yale University Press

Science writer and psychotherapist Greenberg offers a witty and often very personal investigation into the roles doctors, drug companies, and patients themselves have played in casting depression as ?the common cold? of American mental illness. Greenberg covers a wide swath of the history of melancholy, from Freud to shock therapy to the more recent discovery of such neurotransmitters as serotonin. He offers a measured dose of philosophy in contemplating whether unhappiness should be regarded as a disease or instead as an essential part of being human. Ultimately, his book is a sobering critique of the marketing wizards who have overhyped the dubious benefits of antidepressants. 2010, Simon & Schuster

The Mindfulness & Acceptance Workbook for Depression will show you, step-by-step, how to stop the recurring cycle of depression, feel more energized, and involve yourself in pleasurable and fulfilling activities that will help you work through, rather than avoid, aspects of your life that are depressing you. Use the techniques in this self-help book to evaluate your own depression and create a personalized treatment plan. You'll enrich your total life experience by focusing your energy not on fighting depression, but on living the life you want. 2008, New Harbinger

This self-help book presents an innovative eight-session program that has been clinically proven to bolster recovery from depression and prevent relapse. Developed by leading scientist-practitioners and solidly grounded in current psychological research, the approach integrates cognitive therapy principles and practice into a mindfulness framework. 2001, Guilford Press

This hands-on workbook uses case examples and written exercises to help therapy clients understand and use cognitive therapy methods. Step-by-step worksheets teach specific skills including using mood questionnaires to identify, rate, and track changes in feelings; exercises to change the thoughts that contribute to problems; and specific strategies to improve moods and take action to improve daily living and relationships. 1995, Guilford Press

The Noonday Demon traces a long, brambly path through the subject of depression ? exposing all the discordant views and ?answers? offered by science, philosophy, law, psychology, literature, art, and history. The result is a sprawling and thoroughly engrossing study, brilliantly synthesized by author Andrew Solomon. A longtime sufferer of severe depression himself, Solomon willingly shares his life story with readers. This is a stunning contribution to our understanding of the human condition. 2002, Scribner

Kathy Cronkite gives voice to dozens celebrated professionals who have endured ? and conquered ? the hopelessness of chronic depression. The book provides an overview of effective new treatments and the latest therapeutic options to lift the burden of depression. 1995, Delta

According to noted psychologist Seligman, thirty percent of American children suffer from depression. His studies demonstrate that pessimistic children are at much higher risk for becoming depressed than optimistic children. His purpose in this book is to teach parents how to instill in their children a sense of optimism and personal mastery. He proposes that self esteem comes from mastering challenges, overcoming frustration, and experiencing individual achievement. This self-help book offers a concrete plan of action based on techniques of self-evaluation and social interaction. 1996, Perennial

Behavioral activation therapy offers effective, fast relief from depression. This powerful and progressive therapy views depression as a signpost pointing directly at the things that need to change in one's life. Engaging exercises make it easy for you to This simple, profound process will connect you with naturally occurring rewards, which are powerful antidotes to feelings of depression. With this foundation, go on to change how you approach your day-to-day life-your daily activities, the choices you make, and the way you cope with life's ups and downs. 2004, New Harbinger

The authors write, ?a life shaken by depression is also a life open to the possibility of deep transformation.? This book recommends a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and meditation. CBT teaches you to track your thoughts, observe behaviors, and notice how these affect depression. By changing thoughts and behaviors you learn how to change your emotions and mood. Meditation trains you to observe your life and thoughts. Both approaches help you identify and then change core beliefs that influence depression, thereby resulting in new core beliefs based on your values. 2004, New Harbinger

In 1988 at age 26, Lauren Slater lived alone in a basement apartment in Cambridge, depressed, suicidal, and unemployed. Ten years later she is a psychologist running her own clinic, an award winning writer, and happily married; the transformation in her life was brought about by Prozac. Prozac Diary is Lauren Slater?s incisive account of a life restored to productivity, creativity, and love. Yet this book is no hymn to a miracle pharmaceutical. It is a frankly ambivalent quest for the truth of self behind an ongoing reliance on a drug. This is the first memoir to reflect on long-term Prozac use, and it is written with beauty, honesty, and insight. 1999, Penguin

Queer Blues is a groundbreaking book for any gay or lesbian person who struggles with depression. This self-help book really is gay specific -- the authors are a gay man and a lesbian who work as psychotherapists in San Francisco. They address the impact of internal as well as external homophobia, paying particular attention to negative and homophobic self-talk. The book includes many case studies which cover a variety of life stages and circumstances, and there is frank discussion of the different kinds of medications used in treating depression. 2001, New Harbinger

This sociological consideration of illness and disease in contemporary America comes from a Boston College professor who uses his own suffering, treatment, and theory along with reports from 50 others who volunteered to talk with him about their major depressive episodes. Karp addresses psychological, chemical, and cultural perspectives and blames ?self-help? as shallow ideology in a time of advancing anomie. Highly recommended for sufferers, healers, and anyone interested in the effects of depression. 1997, Oxford University Press

Dr. Burns presents innovative, clear and compassionate methods to help the reader identify the causes of mood slumps and develop a more positive outlook on life. The book emphasizes that negative feelings do not result from the bad things that happen to you but from the way you think about these events. Burns provides a ten-step program to self esteem, and the book is filled with logs, charts and step-by-step guides. 1999, HarperCollins

This self-help book offers a simple and easy to understand discussion of how to use the principles and techniques of cognitive behavioral therapies to help control anxiety, depression, moods and build self-esteem in your life. 2011, New Harbinger, 4th Edition

Dr. Rosen applies Carl Jung?s method of active imagination to treating depressed and suicidal individuals. Having dealt with depression in his own life, Dr. Rosen shows that when people learn to confront the rich images and symbols that emerge from their struggles, they can turn their despair into a fountain of creative energy. 2002, Nicolas-Hays

Manning is a clinical psychologist who sank into a crippling depression in 1990. She was obsessed with images of death and plagued by suicidal thoughts; antidepressant medications and psychotherapy provided no relief. She finally agreed to her psychiatrist?s recommendation to submit to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). She credits electroshock with lifting her out of a life-threatening depression, though she concedes some memory loss and confusion. This edgy memoir is informative and adds to the debate over this controversial therapy. 1995, HarperSanFrancisco

In this self-help book psychotherapist Richard O?Connor shows us how to ?undo? depression, by replacing depressive patterns of thinking, relating, and behaving with a new and more effective set of skills. His approach is truly holistic, synthesizing the best of the many schools of thought about this painful disease. 2010, Little, Brown and Company

Unholy Ghost is a collection of 22 modern essays about depression by writers who know their subject intimately. Their words wrestle to express their vision, their gloom, their attempts to cope, their interactions, their isolation, and, often, their reactions to medications. Some attempt to analyze their depression; others just want you to know what it's like. The writers' descriptions of "dwelling in depression's dark wood" (William Styron) are disturbing and haunting, laden with vivid imagery. If you want to know depression from the inside, from thoroughly gifted writers, you'll find it here. 2002, Harper Perennial

Drawing on forty years of pioneering work, Unstuck is Dr. Gordon's seven-stage program for relief through food and nutritional supplements; Chinese medicine; movement, exercise, and dance; psychotherapy, meditation, and guided imagery; and spiritual practice. The result is a remarkable guide that puts the power to change in the hands of those ready to say "no" to suffering and drugs and "yes" to hope and happiness. 2009, Penguin

Psychologists Rosen and Amador explain the mechanisms of depression that can cause communication breakdown, increase hostility, and ultimately destroy relationships. They teach concrete methods that you and your loved one can use to protect yourself and your relationship from depression?s impact. They give sensitive guidance about how to recognize your needs, how to provide the best kind of support, and how to encourage the depressed person to seek treatment. 1997, Free Press

Weintraub makes a viable case for incorporating yoga in the treatment of depression. As a veteran yoga instructor and sufferer from depression, she found that yoga was helpful in freeing her from depression. 2003, Broadway Books